Cross Content Connections: Teach Computer Science in all Subjects

Outline

I. Welcome, Hook, and Mission Alignment (10 minutes)
- Introduce the session and the core idea: CS is computational and critical thinking, not just coding.
- Share the Cal-MSCS Mission and Vision for high-quality MSCS education.
- Connect the session to ISTE Standards.

II. The Resources: Tour and Exploration (15 minutes)
- Conduct a quick Website Tour of the Cal-MSCS "Cross Content Connections" resources.
- Demonstrate that CS integration can be Unplugged (no computer) or Plugged.
- Lead one quick, universally applicable Unplugged activity example.

III. Application: Planning and Practice (25 minutes)
- Introduce how to connect computational thinking, etc. to existing subjects. (10 minutes)
- Collaborative Planning Time (15 minutes): Participants use the Cal-MSCS resources to draft a quick outline for integrating a CS concept into a current lesson plan.

IV. Wrap-up and Next Steps (10 minutes)
- Share and Solidify: Ask for two volunteers to briefly share their draft lesson ideas.
- Closing, Takeaways, and Q&A: Distribute resource quick guides and address final questions.

Outcomes

After this session, participants will be able to:

- Integrate core computer science concepts (like decomposition and abstraction) into at least one current lesson plan using provided Cal-MSCS Grant resources.
- Identify and explain three clear connections between computational thinking and critical thinking within their specific subject area (e.g., Math, ELA, Science, History).
- Design a simple, cross-content learning activity that teaches a computer science principle with zero technology or minimal digital tools.
- Access and effectively navigate the free, high-quality Cal-MSCS Grant resources and materials for future use and collaboration.

Supporting research

www.calmscs.org